2023 Honda Odyssey: Top Features You Should See

The 2023 Honda Odyssey continues to be one of the most versatile and family-friendly minivans on the market, combining a spacious interior, advanced technology, and smooth driving dynamics. Designed to make everyday family life easier, it offers flexible seating arrangements, abundant storage solutions, and a wide range of driver assistance features. With refined styling and updated equipment, the 2023 Odyssey balances comfort, practicality, and modern convenience, making it a top contender in its class for families and long-distance travelers alike.

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What’s New in the 2023 Honda Odyssey?

The 2023 Honda Odyssey builds on its reputation as a top-tier family minivan by introducing subtle styling refinements, expanded standard equipment, and smarter tech features. While its core formula remains unchanged — spacious cabin, flexible seating, and smooth power delivery — this model year focuses on enhancing everyday convenience and interior versatility for modern families.

Refreshed Styling and Trim Adjustments

Honda gives the Odyssey a cleaner and more modern exterior appearance for 2023. Subtle updates to the front fascia and grille design lend a sharper, more upscale look. New wheel designs add visual variety across trims, while fresh paint options — including Sonic Gray Pearl — give the minivan a contemporary feel without straying from its family-friendly character.

New Sport Trim Introduction

A notable addition to the lineup is the Sport trim, which brings a more athletic design package. It features black 19-inch wheels, gloss-black exterior accents, and red interior ambient lighting, offering a bolder aesthetic for buyers who want a minivan with a bit more personality.

Expanded Standard Features

Honda has also increased the amount of standard equipment across trims. Key highlights include:

• Rear-seat reminder system and seatbelt reminder for all rows, improving safety awareness.
• Power front seats, tri-zone automatic climate control, and keyless entry now standard even on base trims.
• Additional USB ports and improved interior storage options for passengers in all three rows.

Cabin Comfort and Practicality Enhancements

Inside, the Odyssey continues to excel at family-oriented flexibility. Updates for 2023 include improved Magic Slide second-row seats, which make access to the third row easier and allow multiple configurations for child seats. New interior storage cubbies and more refined materials give the cabin a cleaner, more organized feel.

Technology and Connectivity Upgrades

The Odyssey’s infotainment system receives software refinements, improving responsiveness and adding wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on more trims. A digital driver display on higher trims provides more accessible vehicle information, and available CabinWatch and CabinTalk features allow parents to monitor and communicate with passengers in the rear seats seamlessly.

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Engine Options and Performance

The 2023 Honda Odyssey relies on a single, proven powertrain that prioritizes smoothness, reliability, and balanced performance — exactly what most families need from a minivan. While there are no multiple engine choices to compare, the setup it offers is refined, capable, and well-suited for daily driving and long-distance trips alike.

Engine and Transmission

Under the hood, every 2023 Odyssey features a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, which delivers smooth, well-timed shifts. Power is sent to the front wheels, as all-wheel drive is not available.

This powertrain has been part of Honda’s lineup for years and has a strong reputation for reliability, quiet operation, and linear power delivery, making it ideal for both urban driving and highway cruising.

Performance Highlights

• Acceleration: The Odyssey reaches 0–60 mph in roughly 7 seconds, giving it brisk acceleration for a minivan.
• Towing Capability: It can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped, making it suitable for small trailers or family recreational gear.
• Highway Cruising: The V6 runs smoothly at speed, with minimal noise and vibration, ensuring a refined ride on long journeys.
• Transmission Behavior: The 10-speed automatic prioritizes smoothness but reacts quickly when extra power is needed, delivering confident passing performance.

Driving Modes and Efficiency

Honda equips the Odyssey with Eco Assist and an Idle Stop system, designed to maximize fuel efficiency in stop-and-go traffic. The transmission is tuned to keep the engine in its optimal power band without abrupt shifts, which contributes to both comfort and economy.

Real-World Use

In everyday scenarios — school runs, errands, road trips — the Odyssey’s V6 stands out for its dependable power, refined operation, and low maintenance requirements. While it doesn’t chase performance figures, it delivers exactly what families expect: smooth, consistent, and confident power.

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Driving Experience and Handling

The 2023 Honda Odyssey offers a driving experience that focuses on comfort, stability, and predictable control, making it one of the smoothest and most confidence-inspiring minivans on the market. While it’s not designed for sporty performance, its handling characteristics are composed and reassuring — perfect for families on daily commutes or long road trips.

Smooth and Confident Ride

One of the Odyssey’s standout qualities is its car-like driving feel, which sets it apart from bulkier, truck-based alternatives. The chassis is well-tuned to absorb bumps and road imperfections, resulting in a ride that’s remarkably smooth and quiet. Whether navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, the Odyssey maintains a stable and planted demeanor.

• Suspension Tuning: The suspension strikes a balance between comfort and control, keeping body motions in check without feeling stiff.
• Steering: Light at low speeds for easy maneuvering, yet precise enough at higher speeds to inspire confidence.
• Noise Insulation: Excellent cabin soundproofing ensures minimal road and wind noise, even at highway speeds.

Maneuverability in Daily Driving

Despite its size, the Odyssey is surprisingly easy to handle in urban environments. Its tight turning radius and well-calibrated steering make parking and navigating through narrow streets more manageable than expected. Features like the multi-angle rearview camera and available front and rear parking sensors add extra convenience when maneuvering in tight spaces.

Highway Stability and Long Trips

On the open road, the Odyssey shines as a long-distance cruiser. It tracks straight and steady, requiring minimal steering corrections. The suspension remains composed over uneven pavement, and passengers experience a comfortable, fatigue-free ride, even on extended journeys. Its aerodynamic shape also helps reduce wind resistance and improve stability at speed.

Everyday Practical Confidence

The Odyssey’s driving dynamics aren’t about excitement — they’re about effortless control and reassurance. Whether you’re driving solo or with a full load of passengers and luggage, it behaves consistently and predictably. This sense of confidence is a big part of why many families choose the Odyssey over SUVs: it simply makes everyday driving easier and more relaxing.

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Interior Design and Comfort Features

The 2023 Honda Odyssey is designed with families in mind, offering one of the most versatile and thoughtfully arranged interiors in its class. From its clever seating configurations to premium comfort features, every detail is crafted to make daily life easier — whether it’s the school run, a road trip, or a busy weekend schedule.

Cabin Layout and Design Philosophy

The Odyssey’s interior focuses on functionality without sacrificing comfort. The dashboard layout is clean and logically organized, giving the driver easy access to all controls. High-quality materials, soft-touch surfaces, and subtle metallic accents provide a premium feel that elevates the cabin experience beyond what’s typical for a minivan.

• Dashboard Design: Wide, horizontal layout improves visibility and gives the cabin an open, airy feel.
• Storage Solutions: Multiple cubbies, large center bins, and door pockets offer excellent space for personal items.
• Materials: Even lower trims feature durable, well-finished materials designed to withstand daily family use.

Magic Slide Seating System

One of the Odyssey’s signature features is its Magic Slide second-row seats, which can slide both forward and sideways to optimize space and accessibility. This allows parents to:

• Easily access the third row without removing child seats.
• Create more space between seats for better passenger comfort.
• Configure seating for different needs — whether maximizing cargo room or accommodating multiple child seats.

The third row features 60/40 split-folding seats, which can fold flat into the floor to create a wide, level cargo area.

Comfort Features for All Passengers

Honda ensures that comfort extends to every row:

• Tri-zone automatic climate control allows separate temperature settings for front, middle, and rear passengers.
• Available heated and ventilated front seats, along with heated second-row seats, enhance comfort in any season.
• CabinWatch and CabinTalk systems let front passengers monitor and communicate with those in the back through the infotainment screen and speakers.
• Multiple USB ports and power outlets keep devices charged for all occupants.

Family-Friendly Practicality

The Odyssey’s interior is built for real-world family use. Flat floors make moving between rows easy, and wide-opening rear doors simplify child seat installation. Optional leather upholstery and stain-resistant surfaces make cleanup simple, while ample headroom and legroom in all three rows ensure that adults and kids alike can travel comfortably.

Overall, the interior blends practicality with thoughtful design, making the Odyssey one of the most family-friendly vehicles available.

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Advanced Safety and Driver Assistance Systems

The 2023 Honda Odyssey places a strong emphasis on safety, offering a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features and structural protections designed to keep all occupants secure. Whether you’re navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, the Odyssey integrates intelligent technologies and solid engineering to create one of the safest family vehicles in its class.

Standard Honda Sensing Suite

All trims of the 2023 Odyssey come standard with Honda Sensing, a collection of active safety and driver assistance systems that work together to enhance driver awareness and reduce the risk of collisions. Key features include:

• Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS): Automatically applies the brakes if a frontal collision seems imminent.
• Road Departure Mitigation (RDM): Gently steers and applies brakes to keep the vehicle on the road.
• Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS): Provides steering support to keep the vehicle centered in its lane.
• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow: Maintains a safe following distance, even in stop-and-go traffic.
• Forward Collision Warning and Lane Departure Warning: Alerts the driver to potential hazards.

These systems are calibrated to intervene smoothly, ensuring they assist the driver without feeling intrusive — especially important for families who want extra safety without giving up driving control.

Structural Protection and Airbag Systems

The Odyssey’s body structure uses Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) design, which distributes crash forces more evenly throughout the frame. This enhances occupant protection in frontal collisions and improves crash compatibility with other vehicles. The cabin features multiple airbags, including front, side, and three-row side curtain airbags, offering extensive protection for all passengers.

Additional Driver Assistance Features

Higher trims add even more convenience and safety technologies, such as:

• Blind Spot Information System with Rear Cross Traffic Monitor
• Front and Rear Parking Sensors for easier maneuvering
• Auto High-Beam Headlights to improve nighttime visibility
• Multi-Angle Rearview Camera with wide, normal, and top-down views

Real-World Safety Performance

In everyday driving, these systems work seamlessly to support the driver and reduce stress, particularly during highway travel or crowded urban conditions. The adaptive cruise and lane-keeping systems make long trips more relaxing, while the wide camera views and parking sensors simplify low-speed maneuvers.

The Odyssey consistently earns top safety ratings from major agencies, making it one of the most trusted choices for families seeking peace of mind on the road.

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Technology and Infotainment Innovations

The 2023 Honda Odyssey blends practicality with modern technology, creating a connected and intuitive environment for both drivers and passengers. From its easy-to-use infotainment system to clever in-cabin features, the Odyssey prioritizes usability, family communication, and connectivity rather than overwhelming occupants with unnecessary complexity.

Infotainment System and Display

At the center of the dashboard is an 8-inch touchscreen that comes standard on most trims. The interface is clear, responsive, and logically arranged, making it easy to navigate even while driving. Physical buttons and knobs are retained for essential functions like volume and climate control — a thoughtful choice that keeps distractions to a minimum.

Key highlights include:

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration for seamless smartphone connectivity.
• Bluetooth streaming, USB ports, and auxiliary inputs for various media sources.
• A crisp digital display for the driver, presenting navigation, driver assistance, and trip data clearly.
• Over-the-air software updates that keep the system current without dealership visits.

Connectivity and Family Convenience

The Odyssey’s technology extends beyond entertainment — it’s designed to make family life easier.

• Multiple USB charging ports and available wireless charging keep everyone’s devices powered.
• Available Wi-Fi hotspot capability transforms the cabin into a connected space, ideal for road trips or keeping kids entertained.
• Honda’s CabinControl app lets passengers use their smartphones to adjust audio, climate, and navigation settings remotely.

CabinWatch and CabinTalk

Two standout family-focused technologies are CabinWatch and CabinTalk, available on higher trims.

• CabinWatch: Uses an interior camera to provide a live feed of the rear seats on the infotainment screen, allowing parents to keep an eye on kids without turning around.
• CabinTalk: Acts like an in-car intercom system, letting the driver’s voice be heard through the rear speakers or passengers’ headphones — perfect for communicating with third-row occupants on long trips.

Audio Options

The Odyssey comes with a solid standard audio system, but higher trims offer a premium 11-speaker sound system for a richer listening experience. Combined with excellent cabin insulation, this makes for a quiet, immersive environment for music, podcasts, or calls.

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Fuel Efficiency and Real-World Economy

The 2023 Honda Odyssey delivers competitive fuel efficiency for a minivan powered by a V6 engine, thanks to its smooth 10-speed automatic transmission, aerodynamic shape, and built-in fuel-saving technologies. While it doesn’t offer a hybrid option, its real-world performance remains impressive for families who do a mix of city and highway driving.

Official EPA Estimates

The Odyssey is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 with front-wheel drive, returning the following EPA-rated figures:

• City: 19 mpg
• Highway: 28 mpg
• Combined: 22 mpg

These numbers place it on par with or slightly ahead of many rivals in the non-hybrid minivan segment. The transmission plays a key role by keeping engine speeds low during steady cruising, helping maximize highway efficiency.

Real-World Driving Efficiency

In everyday use, most drivers experience fuel economy close to these estimates, depending on driving style and conditions. Key factors that influence real-world efficiency include:

• Driving Style: Smooth acceleration and steady cruising typically yield results closer to the highway rating.
• Traffic Conditions: Stop-and-go city driving can lower mileage, but the Odyssey’s Idle Stop system helps reduce fuel waste.
• Passenger and Cargo Load: Carrying a full family and gear naturally impacts efficiency, though the Odyssey remains stable and predictable under load.

Fuel-Saving Features

Honda equips the Odyssey with several systems to help conserve fuel without compromising performance:

• Eco Assist System: Encourages economical driving through dashboard indicators.
• Idle Stop System: Temporarily shuts off the engine at stoplights to save fuel, restarting smoothly when needed.
• Lightweight Construction: Honda’s engineering keeps weight in check, improving both efficiency and handling.

Practical Takeaway

While some competitors offer hybrid variants, the Odyssey’s refined V6 and intelligent transmission deliver strong real-world economy for a non-hybrid minivan. For families who frequently take road trips or spend time on highways, this translates to fewer fuel stops and lower long-term operating costs.

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Dimensions, Cargo Space, and Everyday Practicality

The 2023 Honda Odyssey excels at offering a spacious, flexible interior within a well-proportioned body that remains easy to maneuver. Honda has designed the Odyssey to balance interior room, storage versatility, and exterior manageability, making it one of the most practical minivans available for families.

Exterior Dimensions

The Odyssey maintains the classic minivan proportions that prioritize interior space while keeping the overall footprint manageable for city streets and parking lots. Its wide stance and low ride height give it excellent stability while contributing to a sleek, modern look.

Key exterior dimensions:

• Length: 205.2 in
• Width: 78.5 in
• Height: 69.6 in
• Wheelbase: 118.1 in
• Ground Clearance: 4.5 in

These measurements place the Odyssey among the larger minivans in the segment, but features like responsive steering and a tight turning radius help keep it surprisingly maneuverable in urban environments.

Interior Space and Passenger Comfort

Inside, the Odyssey’s cabin is designed to maximize usable space for passengers in all three rows.

• Front row: Generous legroom and supportive seats, offering excellent visibility and comfort for the driver and front passenger.
• Second row: Honda’s Magic Slide seats allow multiple configurations, giving families flexibility to prioritize either passenger comfort or easy third-row access.
• Third row: Adults can comfortably sit here for shorter trips, while children fit easily for longer journeys. Wide-opening doors make installing car seats simple.

Cargo Capacity and Storage Solutions

One of the Odyssey’s biggest strengths is its cargo versatility. Behind the third row, there’s enough space for groceries, strollers, or luggage without needing to fold any seats. When more room is required:

• Third-row seats fold flat into the floor, creating a large, level cargo area.
• Second-row seats can be removed, allowing the van to handle bulky furniture or gear with ease.
• Numerous storage bins, cubbies, and cupholders throughout the cabin make it easy to keep personal items organized.

Everyday Practicality

The Odyssey is designed for busy family life:

• Low step-in height makes entry and exit easy for children and older passengers.
• Power sliding doors provide convenient access in tight spaces.
• Hands-free power tailgate is available on higher trims, perfect for when your hands are full.
• Wide visibility and thoughtful ergonomics make daily driving, school runs, and road trips more relaxed.

Overall, the 2023 Odyssey combines minivan-level spaciousness with thoughtful design, making it one of the most practical and family-friendly vehicles on the market.

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Common Issues and Long-Term Reliability

The 2023 Honda Odyssey continues Honda’s reputation for building durable, low-maintenance family vehicles. Its V6 powertrain and overall structure have been proven over many years, making it one of the most reliable options in the minivan segment. However, like any modern vehicle, there are a few recurring issues and considerations that owners should keep in mind to ensure long-term dependability.

Overall Reliability Overview

The Odyssey’s 3.5-liter V6 engine and 10-speed automatic transmission are well-tested and generally regarded as highly reliable when maintained properly. Honda has fine-tuned this powertrain over multiple generations, resulting in smooth performance and minimal major mechanical failures. Most reported issues are electronic or software-related, rather than structural or drivetrain problems.

Commonly Reported Issues

• Infotainment Freezes or Lag: A small number of owners report occasional screen slowdowns or temporary blackouts. These are usually resolved through over-the-air updates or system resets.
• Sliding Door Malfunctions: In some cases, the power sliding doors may operate slowly or require recalibration after years of frequent use. Regular cleaning and lubrication usually prevent issues.
• Sensor Alerts: Lane-keeping or parking sensors may trigger unnecessary warnings if they become dirty or misaligned, especially in winter conditions.
• Cabin Rattles Over Time: Minor interior squeaks or rattles can develop in older vehicles, typically from trim pieces or the rear seating area. These are cosmetic rather than mechanical.

Preventive Maintenance Tips

Owners can minimize potential issues by following a proactive maintenance routine:

• Keep infotainment software up to date through OTA updates or dealer visits.
• Clean and maintain sliding door tracks regularly to ensure smooth operation.
• Inspect and clean exterior sensors periodically, especially during harsh weather seasons.
• Address small noises or electronic quirks early before they become more noticeable.

Long-Term Ownership Outlook

With routine maintenance, the 2023 Odyssey is known to easily exceed 150,000 miles, and many examples remain strong well past 200,000 miles. The engine and transmission combination is one of the most proven in the segment, and parts availability is excellent.

While repair costs can be slightly higher than smaller sedans due to its size and powertrain, the Odyssey’s track record for mechanical reliability makes it a smart long-term choice for families who need a dependable vehicle.

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Maintenance Schedule and Ownership Experience

Owning the 2023 Honda Odyssey is generally a straightforward experience, thanks to its proven powertrain and well-structured maintenance schedule. Honda’s reputation for reliability and low running costs carries through here, making the Odyssey one of the most affordable minivans to maintain over the long term when serviced regularly.

Recommended Maintenance Intervals

Honda follows a mileage- and time-based maintenance schedule to keep the Odyssey in peak condition. Key service intervals include:

• Every 7,500–10,000 miles (or annually): Engine oil and filter change, tire rotation, fluid top-ups, and a general inspection.
• Every 15,000–20,000 miles: Cabin air filter replacement, brake inspection, and software updates if needed.
• Every 30,000 miles: Transmission fluid inspection, suspension and steering checks, battery testing, and engine air filter replacement.
• Every 45,000–60,000 miles: Spark plug replacement, coolant inspection, brake fluid replacement, and full system diagnostics.
• As Needed: Tire balancing, wheel alignment, wiper blades, brake pad replacement, and infotainment updates.

Following these intervals helps ensure consistent performance and prevents minor issues from becoming expensive repairs later on.

Ownership Costs and Programs

• Honda Maintenance Minder System: The Odyssey uses this onboard system to notify owners of upcoming service needs based on driving conditions, helping prevent missed intervals.
• Service Plans: Honda offers prepaid maintenance plans and extended warranties that can help manage costs more predictably, especially for families planning long-term ownership.
• Parts Availability: Routine service parts are widely available and relatively affordable compared to European minivans or SUVs.

Real-World Ownership Experience

Owners often praise the Odyssey for being easy to live with on a daily basis. Its smooth ride, practical layout, and dependable mechanics make it ideal for both busy city families and frequent highway travelers. Cabin features like CabinWatch and CabinTalk, as well as a well-organized interior, add to the convenience of everyday use.

Long-Term Value

The Odyssey retains strong resale values compared to other minivans, largely because of its mechanical reliability and family-friendly reputation. With regular servicing, many owners keep their Odysseys for well over a decade, often using them for multiple family stages — from toddlers to teenagers — without major issues.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What engine powers the 2023 Honda Odyssey?

Every 2023 Odyssey is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. This powertrain is well-known for its smooth power delivery and long-term reliability, making it ideal for families who need dependable performance for daily use and road trips.

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Is the 2023 Odyssey fuel-efficient for its size?

Yes. The Odyssey achieves 19 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 22 mpg combined, which is competitive for a V6-powered minivan. Real-world results are often close to these numbers, especially on highway drives. Honda’s Eco Assist and Idle Stop systems help optimize fuel economy during urban traffic and longer journeys.

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How comfortable is the Odyssey for long trips?

The Odyssey excels on road trips thanks to its smooth ride, quiet cabin, and flexible interior layout. The Magic Slide second-row seats and spacious third row make it easy to accommodate passengers of all sizes, while tri-zone climate control and multiple charging ports keep everyone comfortable and connected.

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What technology features stand out in the 2023 model?

The Odyssey offers a user-friendly 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, multiple USB ports, available Wi-Fi hotspot, and over-the-air updates. Unique family-focused technologies like CabinWatch and CabinTalk allow parents to monitor and communicate with rear passengers more easily.

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Are there any common problems with the 2023 Odyssey?

Most issues reported are minor and electronics-related, such as occasional infotainment lag or sensor alerts, which are typically resolved with software updates. Some owners have noted that sliding doors may need periodic maintenance to keep operating smoothly. Major mechanical problems are rare.

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How reliable is the Odyssey in the long run?

The Odyssey is known for excellent long-term reliability, often exceeding 150,000 miles with proper maintenance. Its V6 engine and transmission are well-proven, and Honda’s parts availability makes upkeep relatively affordable compared to other large family vehicles.

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Is the Odyssey practical for everyday family life?

Absolutely. With three rows of seating, multiple storage solutions, wide-opening sliding doors, and a low step-in height, it’s designed to handle everything from school drop-offs to long vacations. Features like power sliding doors and hands-free tailgate access make daily use even more convenient.

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What does the maintenance schedule look like?

Routine service typically occurs every 7,500 to 10,000 miles, with oil changes, inspections, and fluid checks. More comprehensive maintenance is recommended at 30,000 and 60,000 miles. The onboard Maintenance Minder system alerts owners when service is due, making it easy to stay on schedule.

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How does the Odyssey compare to other minivans?

The Odyssey stands out for its interior flexibility, refined driving experience, and advanced family-focused features. While some rivals offer hybrid powertrains, the Odyssey’s V6 remains one of the smoothest and most reliable in the segment, and its technology features are among the most practical for families.

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Is the 2023 Odyssey a good long-term investment?

Yes. Its strong reliability, family-focused features, and solid resale value make it a smart choice for long-term ownership. Many families keep their Odysseys for well over a decade, using them through multiple stages of family life with minimal major issues.